How to Set Up a Home Recording Studio on a Budget under INR 20,000

Setting up a functional home recording studio doesn't require a large budget, especially for those looking to invest under INR 20,000. This guide will help you understand how to create a soundproof and efficient space to get started with recording music, voicemails, or any other audio content from your own home.

Assuming You Already Have a Home

While your budget is manageable, it's still important to ensure you have a dedicated space within your home. This can be a spare room, a closet, or even a corner of your existing bedroom. The ideal space should be free from echoes and acoustic issues that can affect the quality of your recordings.

Recording Device – The Right Equipment

If you already have a recording device, such as a smartphone, that's great. A smartphone can provide high-quality audio recordings, especially if you have a newer model. However, consider investing in a sound isolation microphone, such as the Samson COCO Carbon Condenser Microphone. This will ensure your recordings are clear and pristine without breaking your budget.

Soundproofing Your Space

The most critical step in setting up a home recording studio is soundproofing. Even a small space can create unwanted echoes and reverberations. The cheapest and most accessible material you can use for soundproofing is jute bags. Jute bags, typically used for carrying grain, can be purchased for around INR 25 each. These fabric bags are highly effective in deadening sound waves.

Use the jute bags to create makeshift sound curtains. Hang multiple layers of these bags from the ceiling to the floor. Stacking bags in the corners will help smooth out the mid-range frequencies. Additionally, you can use a clean sheet as a backdrop to hide the jute bags, keeping the background clean and visually appealing for recording with your phone. Start with around 200 bags, and you should be able to achieve a good soundproofing effect.

Additional Soundproofing Tips

Construction Materials: Purchase some wood and nails, along with a hammer and twine, and a bag sewing needle. Use these materials to make frames and hang the sewn jute bags from the frames. Covering the frames with more layers of jute bags can further enhance the soundproofing effect. Echo Absorption: Once you have hung the jute bags, add more layers until the annoying echo is gone. This process may take some trial and error, so be patient and continue adding or adjusting the layers until you're satisfied with the sound quality.

Maximizing Your Budget

While jute bags are an excellent, cheap solution, consider investing in additional accessories to enhance your recording setup. Here are a few budget-friendly options:

Quality Microphone Stand: A standing microphone is essential for keeping the microphone at the right height and angle, reducing the risk of handling noise. Look for a simple and durable stand that won’t take up too much space. XLR Cables: XLR cables are professional-grade cables used to connect microphones to preamps or recording devices. While they can be a bit more expensive, using high-quality cables can significantly improve the overall audio quality. Audio Interface: If you plan to use your home recording studio for more complex audio projects, investing in a good audio interface is worthwhile. An audio interface converts analog audio signals to digital ones, allowing you to record high-quality audio on your computer.

Conclusion

Setting up a home recording studio under INR 20,000 is entirely achievable if you approach it with a strategic mindset. By using jute bags to soundproof your space and investing in a few key accessories, you can create a functional and professional-sounding recording environment. Remember, the quality of your recordings depends significantly on your soundproofing efforts, so take your time to ensure you achieve the best possible results.